Raises for City Council

City Council members Leroy Comrie and Tony Avella took to the Daily News editorial pages on Sunday to tackle the question of whether the City Council deserves a raise.

Comrie:

“The last time the city adjusted the salaries for Council members was seven years ago. Since then, the cost of living in New York City has increased 25%. At a base salary of $90,000, member are paid considerably less than the $175,000 that many New York City commissioners earn, less than many professional staff are paid at city agencies and less than some staff are paid at the Council itself.”

Avella:

“Being a member of the Council is still a part-time job. Council members are allowed to have other jobs and outside income, and many do. In addition, many members receive annual bonuses, ranging from $4,000 to $29,500, for serving in leadership positions or as committee chairs. I have always refused mine.”